As the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) approaches, the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) is preparing to mark the occasion with a series of special events and activities to bring together staff, patients, and visitors.
VE Day, which is on Thursday 8 May, commemorates the end of the Second World War in Europe. This year, UHL will come together to honour the sacrifices of those who fought and died during the war and reflect on the resilience of those who lived through it.
Throughout the day, UHL will host several events, to ensure that VE Day is remembered with respect and appreciation.
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VE Day afternoon tea: staff and patients can enjoy afternoon tea in the Secret Garden at the Glenfield Hospital from 1:30pm to 2:30pm.
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Service of Reflection: at 2:30pm a Service of Reflection will take place in the garden at the Balmoral Building, where staff, patients, and visitors will gather for a time of prayer and remembrance. This service will include a two-minute silence at 2:41pm to provide an opportunity to reflect on the significance of VE Day.
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A moment of reflection: at 2:41pm there will be a two-minute silence for those gathered in the Secret Garden at the Glenfield Hospital and in the Chapel at the Leicester General Hospital.
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Chapels open for individual reflection: throughout the day, UHL's chapels will be open for staff, patients, and visitors to spend a quiet moment in individual reflection and remembrance.
Head of Chaplaincy at UHL, Kartar Singh Bring, said: “VE Day is not only a time to commemorate the end of the war in Europe in 1945, but also an opportunity to reflect on the hope, courage, and unity that emerged in the face of adversity. As we mark this significant anniversary, we will be joining in reflection, remembering the sacrifices made by so many, and committing ourselves to the peace they fought for. It is important that we never forget the lessons of the past and continue to strive for a world of understanding and compassion."
UHL is encouraging all serving personnel and veterans, to wear their uniforms on VE Day as a visible symbol of their service and sacrifice.
